Weekend in Yamaguchi

A covered shopping arcade from the Showa era with small independent shops, a few bakeries, and a second-hand kimono stall. Walking through is free and gives a sense of local daily

Tip: Stop at the tiny taiyaki shop near the east entrance for a hot red-bean fish cake – costs about 150 yen (not free, but cheap). The arcade is quiet after 6pm.

A small municipal museum focusing on local modern artists, with changing exhibitions of paintings and ceramics. The permanent collection is free.

Tip: The courtyard sculpture garden is often overlooked – it’s a calm spot to sit. Check the website before going; special exhibitions sometimes have a fee.

The tallest wooden pagoda from the Muromachi period in Japan. Set in a quiet temple complex with a small garden and Kōzan Park behind it.

Tip: Go early on a weekday to get a picture without crowds. The reflection in the pond near the main hall is better than the standard postcard shot.

A spacious hillside park behind Ruriko-ji with cherry trees, azaleas, and a small zoo. Good for a picnic or a walk up to the lookout over central Yamaguchi.

Tip: If you visit in late March or early April, the cherry blossoms are stunning, but even in autumn the maples are worth the climb up the stone steps.

A free public footbath next to the Yuda Onsen hot-spring riverbank. Hot mineral water flows continuously through a covered, clean concrete basin.

Tip: Bring your own towel – no rental nearby. Best in the evening when the path is lit. Combine with a stroll along the river to see the free steam vents.